The Mercedes-Benz M111.957 is a 1,598 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2000. It features a DOHC 16-valve configuration with sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) and was engineered for compact executive applications. This naturally aspirated design delivers 75 kW (102 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 140 Nm of torque at 3,800 rpm, providing smooth urban performance with refined throttle response.
Fitted primarily to the W202 C-Class and Vito (V208) models—including the C160 Kompressor and Vito 1.6—the M111.957 was designed for responsive driving dynamics and light commercial versatility. Its engineering emphasizes drivability and emissions compliance, meeting Euro 2 standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. The engine’s transverse layout enabled efficient packaging in front-wheel-drive platforms.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the intake camshaft in early production units, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 01.0-885/00, is attributed to marginal oil film strength at high-load cam lobe points. In 1999, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil pump calibration were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz M111.957 is a 1,598 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact executive and light commercial vehicles (1998–2000). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and dependable performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances fuel economy with responsive urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.7 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft wear. MB 229.3 (10W-40) oil is critical due to its high-shear stability protecting cam lobes under sustained load. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates carbon buildup on intake valves. The ME-SFI system demands fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent injector clogging. Post-1999 models feature hardened camshafts; pre-1999 units benefit from inspection per SIB 01.0-885/00. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor function and avoidance of leaded fuel.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (10W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0-885/00). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all M111.957 models (1998–2000) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1999).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A111700, A111715, SIB 01.0-885/00
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M111.957 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202/V208 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Renault in light commercial variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the C-Class and reinforced mounts in the Vito-and from 1999 the facelifted W202 models adopted revised camshafts, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Renault's Express van to use the M111 block with modified ancillaries. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A111705). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M111 series). Pre-1999 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-1999 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M111.944: M111.957 has identical displacement but lower output due to revised cam timing and intake tuning. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts before 08/1999 are incompatible with later units due to material upgrade (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0-885/00).
The M111.957's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on pre-1999 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2002 indicated a notable share of early engines requiring camshaft replacement before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a moderate rate of emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in fleet-operated vehicles. Extended idling and low-RPM operation increase lobe stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M111957.
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